Heavy Rainfall Expected to Cause Drinking Water Turbidity
03 December 2007 Turbidity occurs when sediment is transported into water reservoirs by runoff. As turbidity increases, statistical studies have indicated there is the potential for an increase in gastrointestinal illness. Those with compromised immune systems due to HIV or who are undertaking chemotherapy or anti-rejection medications should always use drinking water that has been boiled or treated to the same level as boiling. In anticipation of increased turbidity, residents may wish to set aside a supply of water in containers. Completion of the Seymour-Capilano Filtration project in 2009 will provide a long-term solution to turbidity in drinking water. For more information on water quality or water supply, please contact the Public Works Control Centre at 604-244-1262.
Metro Vancouver has advised that t here is a likelihood that within the next 24 hours residents of Metro Vancouver may notice increasingly turbid drinking water (water that appears cloudy) as a result of extremely heavy rainfall on the steep mountainous terrain above Metro Vancouver’s water supply lakes.
